FIFA World Cup 2034
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has extended his best wishes to Saudi Arabia for the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
He also expressed his hopes for the Kingdom’s continued progress and prosperity under the wise leadership of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.
Saudi Arabia is the only country bidding to host the 2034 World Cup after Australia decided not to submit a bid by the deadline.
Saudi Arabia initially considered bidding for the 2030 World Cup in partnership with Egypt and Greece. However, this plan was abandoned in June, clearing the way for the tri-continental bid.
Saudi Arabia announced its bid for the 2034 World Cup on October 4, following the launch of the procedure. FIFA’s continental rotation system meant that only countries from the Asian and Oceanian confederations were invited to apply, excluding the traditional footballing nations.
At a point in time, Indonesia had contemplated the possibility of a joint bid with Australia, and even explored the idea of collaborating with other nations like New Zealand, Malaysia, and Singapore. However, on October 19, Indonesia decided to throw its support behind Saudi Arabia’s bid.
Currently, only “expressions of interest” have been submitted. Once the complete bids for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups are submitted, FIFA will assess them and hold separate congress meetings at the end of 2024 for a vote. However, with no competition in sight, there is little room for suspense.
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FIFA World Cup Saudi Arabia 2034
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the World Cup presents a more significant challenge than its neighboring country, Qatar, which hosted the 2022 World Cup. The tournament format has expanded, and starting from 2026, it will involve 48 teams, resulting in 104 matches.
FIFA stipulates the need for “a minimum of 14 stadiums” with capacities ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 seats and at least “72 base camps” to accommodate the increased scale of the event.
